Speaking for the first time after the announcement Matip admitted he was looking forward to the challenge of the Premier League.

"I have always said that I would only bid goodbye to Schalke to experience something fundamentally new," Matip was quoted in the Mirror after the move was announced on Monday.

"That's why I never considered a switch within the Bundesliga.

"And even though the decision was definitely not easy, I am convinced that now is the time to make the next step.

"Schalke 04 will always remain a big family to me. I was proud to play for this club. I will give it my all in the upcoming months to get the best results from this season. That's what I owe the fans and the team."